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Phillip Hughes' death 'a real life tragedy' says James Sutherland

By Allsports.com.gh
Sports News Phillip Hughes' death 'a real life tragedy' says James Sutherland
NOV 27, 2014 LISTEN

Hughes failed to recover after being hit in the neck by a bouncer while playing for South Australia on Tuesday and passed away at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney on Thursday.

At a media conference held at the hospital after the announcement of Hughes' death, Sutherland was one of five people to speak, along with Australia captain Michael Clarke, Cricket Australia chief doctor Dr Peter Brukner, Australian Cricketers Association CEO Alistair Nicholson and St Vincent's head of surgery Tony Grabs.

"It's an understatement to say we're completely devastated," Sutherland said.

"The word tragedy gets used too often in sport but this freak accident is a real-life tragedy."

Clarke spoke on behalf of Hughes' family and left immediately after reading the statement.

"We're devastated by the loss of our much-loved son and brother Phillip," Clarke read.

"It's been very a difficult few days and we appreciate all the support we have received from family, friends, players, Cricket Australia and the general public.

"Cricket was Phillip's life and we as family share that love of game with him.

"We would like to thank all medical and nursing staff at St Vincent's Hospital and Cricket NSW medical staff for their great efforts with Phillip. We love you."

Dr Brukner and Dr Grabs both made it clear that not only was Hughes' injury a freak accident but there was very little anyone could have done to save the 25-year-old.

There had been speculation in the Australian media that a lag in the ambulance arriving at the SCG had exacerbated Hughes' situation but that was rejected outright.

"The blow to the head he suffered was catastrophic," Dr Grabs said.

Dr Brukner added: "Phillip took the blow at the side of the neck and as a result of that blow his vertebral artery, one of the main arteries leading to the brain, was compressed by the ball.

"That caused the artery to split and for bleeding to go up into the brain. He had a massive bleed into his brain. This is frequently fatal at the time."

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